[Stroke mimicking acute peripheral vertigo: how to avoid misdiagnosis - importance of alarm symptoms and assessment of eye movements]

Abstract

Identifying the occurrence of stroke in patients with isolated vertigo is difficult for general practitioners (GPs) as well as for physicians working in the Emergency Department. Three patients with acute vestibular syndrome are presented in this clinical lesson. The importance of an adequate neuro-otological examination is emphasised. However, many GPs lack knowledge of the nystagmus and the head impulse test. Alternative strategies for GPs are discussed.